And as he summed up why the striker quit for Manchester United, he echoed the frustrations of long-suffering Gooners everywhere.

He told The Sun: "Yes, Robin was the captain. But that's also how it goes in football. Players are leaving.

"In the end, of course, for the real Arsenal supporters it was a shame, it was very disappointing that he left the club.

"But on the other hand, if they think clearly, everybody understands his choice that he also wants to win titles and at Arsenal at the moment it's going to be very difficult."

Robben added: "I think you can see it. It's not my opinion, it's also a fact.

"The last eight years - no trophies. That says it all. If you look around at the moment there are some teams in England that are maybe stronger than Arsenal. I cannot speak for Robin. He made his decision."